There are products, including many everyday objects, that They are not subject to specific rules on security.
Although many business owners do not know it, these assets are regulated by Directive 2001/95 / EC of the European Parliament and on general product safety, that embraces and regulates all products, and services.
Yup, also services.
For example the audio guides in museums or devices for spending DIY supermarkets are not subject to specific rules but must comply with the general safety requirements of products.

It does not matter if the object in question is new, used or reconditioned.
Here is a passage from the Directive 2001/95/EC the European Parliament and of the Council on general product safety which is very clear about it:

“For the purposes of this Directive, It is meant by "product":
any intended product, including in the framework of the provision of services, for consumers or likely, under reasonably foreseeable conditions, to be used by consumers, even if not intended for them, provided or made available, whether for consideration or on a commercial basis, regardless of whether it is new, used or reconditioned”.

No exceptions, then.
Many manufacturers, perhaps misled by the lack of specific provisions or perhaps lured by the possibility of not having to invest in the testing phase, place on the market unsafe products.

Leaving aside for a moment the law and possible penalties for violators, to market non standard also introduces the ethical reflections. It is not only the rules but also the confidence of its customers and, Consequently, the company's reputation.
The experts of communication strategies and have dedicated many studies the importance of brand image, especially on the internet.
Very little because, thanks to the power and speed of the network, Also an error made in good faith can destroy all the good work done.

We quote a passage Security package of products and supervision of the Market, very clear and exemplary:

“In a context of economic crisis the consumer spending fell, mainly because of the contraction of incomes and uncertainty about the future.
For this reason it is necessary that consumers can continue to have confidence in the safety of the products and their suitability for the purpose for which they were designed”.

Enter the secure estate market is an act of respect towards the customer.
The consumer, indeed, not only he has the choice between the other competitors but has also invested in a product that has to be functional, safe and in line with expectations.

Think of a family with an average income where parents, laboriously, decided to please his son giving him the object of desire, what they all.
Since it is expensive, parents decide to opt for the version a little cheaper, but in any case equal to the other.
They are quiet because they bought in a store.
In fact the object has not been subjected to safety tests.
It belongs to that category of goods not subject to specific rules and the parent has not seen fit to investigate.
One day the product breaks at the risk of hurting the child.
It is natural that the family will feel betrayed by the company, plundered and we are confident that most will not choose the company in question, maybe you are doing too bad publicity among friends and acquaintances

For the manufacturers to rely on serious and reliable testing laboratories as Sicom Testing it's an investment on its products and on customer loyalty.
Even if the property in question is a small object, seemingly harmless, although it does not have a dedicated legislation in terms of safety, turn to serious and qualified laboratories always pays.

The General Product Safety Directive 2001/95 / EC does not protect only the end customer but also the same company that should become responsible for accidents or problems, as well as to respond criminally, It should then work hard to clean up its image and regain the trust of customers.

It also covers the electricity sector and, in particular, products that have less power of 50 Volt alternating current and below the 75 Volt D.C..
To this group belong many fundamental macro-objects for everyday life, just think of the electric toothbrush or razor.

Comments

Salve,
I need to import the product from China and reselling it in Europe, qaunto to read in your article I came to the conclusion that to be in compliance must apply Directive 2001/95 / EC, I would ask how to do and who should I contact.
Looking forward to your response Yours faithfully,
Matteo.

Good morning Matteo, thanks for contacting us. The application of the Directive implies that the manufacturer make an assessment of the risks associated with the use of the product and show proof of compliance with the applicable requirements. For more information contact us at info@sicomtesting.com
Kind regards
Staff Sicom